CVE-2005-1777 in PostNuke
Summary
by MITRE
SQL injection vulnerability in readpmsg.php in PostNuke 0.750 allows remote attackers to execute arbitrary SQL commands via the start parameter.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 10/27/2025
The vulnerability identified as CVE-2005-1777 represents a critical sql injection flaw discovered in the readpmsg.php script of PostNuke version 0.750. This web application framework, widely used for content management and community portal development during the early 2000s, contained a fundamental security weakness that enabled malicious actors to manipulate database queries through user input. The vulnerability specifically manifests in the handling of the start parameter within the readpmsg.php file, which processes messages or posts within the application's messaging system. The flaw arises from insufficient input validation and sanitization, allowing attackers to inject malicious sql code that gets executed within the database context.
This sql injection vulnerability operates under the common weakness enumeration CWE-89, which classifies it as a direct sql injection attack vector. The vulnerability enables attackers to perform unauthorized database operations including data retrieval, modification, deletion, and potentially complete system compromise. The attack surface is particularly concerning because the start parameter is typically used for pagination purposes in message boards or content listings, making it a legitimate input point that would not immediately raise suspicion. Attackers can manipulate this parameter to bypass authentication mechanisms, extract sensitive user data, or even escalate privileges within the application's database layer.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple data theft, as it can lead to complete system compromise and persistent access. Remote attackers can exploit this weakness to gain unauthorized access to user accounts, personal information, and potentially administrative controls within the PostNuke installation. The vulnerability's exploitation aligns with several tactics described in the mitre att&ck framework under the initial access and execution phases, where adversaries establish footholds through injection attacks. The attack chain typically involves crafting malicious input that gets directly incorporated into sql queries without proper sanitization, allowing the attacker to manipulate the database behavior according to their malicious intent.
Mitigation strategies for this vulnerability require immediate patching of the affected PostNuke version to the latest security updates available from the project maintainers. System administrators should implement proper input validation and parameterized queries to prevent sql injection attacks in all application components. The remediation process should include disabling or restricting the use of dynamic sql construction where possible, implementing proper access controls, and establishing comprehensive monitoring for unusual database access patterns. Additionally, organizations should conduct thorough security assessments of their web applications to identify similar injection vulnerabilities in other components, as this type of flaw often indicates broader security deficiencies in application code design and input handling mechanisms.